Representative young Irish-Americans of Troy, N. Y.

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REPRESENTATIVE

Young Irish-Americans

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1889.

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PUBLIC Library
403981 A

, ASrOR, LENOX AND

Itilden foundations

1929

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1'he City of I'roy.

It was in 1(>3() that Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, an Anister-
dani pearl merchant, began to send emigrants to settle along
the Hudson Eiver. The West India Company had offered to
any person belonging to the association who would induce
fifty persons over fifteen years of age to settle within four
years upon stated tracts of land in New Netherland, the title
of patroon or proprietor of the land so settled. Van Eensse-
laer was ambitious to become a patroon, and in due time he
was made patroon of Rensselaerwyck manor, a great stretch
of territory now included in Rensselaer, Albany and Columbia
Counties. The part of the manor upon which the city of
Troy now stands was known on the earliest maps of the
territory as , the Pafraets Dael (Pafraets' part) so called in
honor of Maria Pafraets, the mother of Kiliaen Van Rens-
^selaer.

Lack of space prevents a detailed history of the early
^settlers hereabouts. Suffice it to say that when the first
*J emigrants from New England came this way the site of Troy
, was in possession of three Dutch farmers. The farm lying
^between the Poestenkill and Division Street was owned by
>i Matthias Van der Hey den, that between Division Street and
Grand Street by Jacob D. Van der Heyden, and that between

IDennis J. Whelan.

Dein'XIS J. Whelan, mayor of Troy, was born in Ireland
September 1, 184G. He was brought to this country and to
Troy when only four years old, and here he has ever since
made his home. He was educated by the Christian Brothers.
While serving his apprenticeship at the plumber's trade the
civil war broke out. He w^as only a boy, but as time wore on
and the North and the South came into more deadly conflict,
he could not resist the patriotic impulse which fired his heart.
He enlisted in the Twelfth New York Cavalry, Capt. Savage
commanding, and served his country for two years At the
close of the war Mr, Whelan finished his trade, and for twelve
years thereafter worked steadily at it. In 1869 he married
Miss Catherine Eegan. The union proved a most happy one.
In 1876 Mr. Whelan threw down his plumbers' topis and
began the manufacture of soda water and other temperance
drinks. This venture was successful. He is still in the
business and occupies a large establishment at Nos. 104 and
100 Jefferson Street. In March, 1880, Mr. Whelan was
elected an Alderman from the Eleventh Ward for the short
term. He was reelected in the fall of 1880, and was returned
to the Common Council in 1882 and 1884. In March, 1882,
he was chosen president of the Common Council. He was
chosen again in 1884, and in 1885 was unanimously reelected,
the Kepublican minority supporting him most heartily, at

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that time an unheard of thing in local municipal affairs.
While acting as president of the Common Council in 1S85,
the Quigiey police force was legislated out of office, and by
act of the Legislature the power to appoint the new com-
missioners was vested in Mr. Whelan. In 1886 he was chosen
mayor and he has since held that office. The crowning act
of his successful administration of municipal affairs came in
the spring of 1880, when, through his patient efforts, a
Citizens' Association was organized and a bill passed in the
Legislature authorizing the expenditure of s85(^, 000 for public
improvement. The commission appointed by the mayor, in
conformity with this act, gave universal satisfaction, and the
gentlemen comprising the commission are now hard at work
mapping out trunk sewers and pavements for the city. This
year the sale of the city lots below the Poestenkill was
authorized. Upon them are now in process of erection a
new engine house and a new station house. A large public
school building has been ordered erected in the Pawling
Avenue district of the Fifth Ward. Mayor Whelan has
been a successful man, and he possesses the confidence and
respect of all classes of citizens.

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V/illiairi J. I^oche.

William J. Eoche was born in this city in 1853. His
parents were William Roche of Castletown Roche, County
Cork, Ireland, and Margaret Guiry, a native of Bride Bridge,
Parish of Castle Lyons, in the same county. William Roche
came to this country in 1841 and Mrs. Roche in 1845. Wil-
liam J. Roche has always lived in Troy. After a thorough
course at the Christian Brothers' Academy he commenced the
study of law with Townsends & Browne. In 1878 he was
admitted to the firm upon the retirement of Mr. Browne, and
continued until the firm was dissolved in 1880. A new part-
nership was formed by Mr. Roche with Hon. Martin I.
Townsend, which firm still exists. On Oct. 10, 1883, although
barely thirty years old, Mr. Roche was apj^ointed to the
resi)onsible and exacting position of city attorney. He dis-
charged the duties of the office with marked ability,
serving until February 7, 1886. He was appointed city
comptroller December 21, 1886, to fill an unexpired term,
and was appointed for the full term of three years
January 2i>, 1887. Comptroller Roche took an active
part in the movement which culminated in the passage
of the Public Improvement Bill, and to him much of the
success of the measure is due. He has codified the laws of
the City of Troy, a bill covering which is pending in the
Legislature. Comptroller Roche is a member of the Robert

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Emmet Association and the Alumni Society of the Christian
Brothers' Academy. Of each of these organizations he has
twice served as president. He was married in 1880 to Miss
Mary L. Campion, a native of New York City. They have
four children, all boys, the oldest being seven years of age.
Comptroller Eoche has ever been actively interested in the
meetings for the relief of distress in Ireland, and in aid of
the Home Eule cause. He represented the Troy branch of
the Irish National League of America in the national con-
ventions of that body held in Philadelphia in 1883 and in
Chicago in 1886.

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John ppancis Bridgemaii.

John F. Bridgeman was born in this city Nov. 11, 18-19.
He is the son of Peter and Mary Bridgeman. After a
thorough course in the public and the Christian Brothers'
schools he entered the store of SilHman, Matthews & Co.,
where he remained from ISGG to 1871. He was a salesman
for Graves, Page & Co., from 1872 to 1878, and in the latter
year he went into the wholesale grocery business under the
firm name of Taylor & Bridgeman. From 1879 until 1885
the subject of this sketch was a traveling salesman for
Barkhalter & Co. of New York. In 1885 he was appointed
city chamberlain, and so ably did he perform the exacting
duties of that important office tliat on tlie expiration of his
term he was reap])ointed. He has taken a prominent part in
the agitation for public imi»rovement which has resulted in
the enactment of the Pubhc Improvement Bill. Mr. Bridge-
man is a member of the Eobert Emmet Association and the
Commercial Travelers' Association of the State of New York.
He is also a trustee of the Pioneer Building and Loan Asso-
ciation. Mr. Bridgeman's wife was Kate C. Gillen. They
have one child, a bright boy of twelve.

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JVIicliael prancis Collins.

Michael F. Collins was born in this city Sept. 27, 1854.
His parents were Patrick and Alice Collins. He has always
resided in Troy. Mr, Collins was fortvinate in his educational
advantages, having attended the public schools and the
Christian Brothers' Academy until thoroughly fitted for the
real work of life. He learned the trade of compositor, work-
ing on the Troy Weekly Press, Troy Sunday Telegram, Troy
Daily Press and Troy Standard. From 1865^ until 1877 Mr.
Collins worked assiduously at his trade. In the latter year
he, with several associates, founded the Troy Standard and
for two years was its efficient city editor. In 1870 he pur-
chased the Troy Observer, which paper he has made one of
the leading Democratic journals of the country. In 1886 he
was elected Assemblyman from the First District of Rensse-
laer County, and the following year was reelected by a
largely increased majority. In the fall of 1888 he was
nominated by the Democratic party for State Senator, and
was elected, notwithstanding the fact that for years the^
district had been largely Republican. Mr. Collins is presi- ;
dent of the famous Pilsner Democratic Club. He is married,
his wife being Miss Carrie E. O'Sullivan. They have 'four
children, two boys and two girls. Mr. Collins was a dele-
gate to the Democratic State Convention in 1882 which
nominated Grover Cleveland for Governor. He was also an^
alternate to the National Democratic Convention at Chicago
in 1884, when Mr. Cleveland was named for the Presidency.

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QeoFge O'J^eil.

George O'Neil was born in the Seventh Ward, this city,
June IS, 1S55, and has always resided in the same ward. He
left the public schools in 1870 to accept a clerkship for Board-
man Bros. He continued in their employ until 1880 when he
went into the grocery business for himself at No. 42 King
Street, where he remains to-day. In 1885, '86 and '87 he was
chosen to represent the Seventh Ward in the Board of Super-
visors. In 1887 he was elected a member of the State Assem-
bly to represent the First Rensselaer District and the
following year he was reelected by a large majority. ^ Mr.
O'Neil has taken a very prominent part in shaping local legis-
lation of late years, and both in business and political life he
has attained a flattering success. He was married June 5,
18851, to Miss Sarah Kennedy.

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John Joseph IVIcGorniicl^.

John Joseph J\^cCoririicl^.

John J. McCormick, son of John and Mary Ann McCor-
mick, was born in Brunswick, Rensselaer County, Nov. 23,
1849. His parents removed to Troy when the subject of this
sketch was four years of age, and in this city he has since
made his home. After a course at the Fifth Ward public
school he entered the High School, where he made a fine
record. For two years and a half Mr. McCormick was a
clerk in W. W. Whitman's paper hanging establishment.
Then he learned the carpenter's trade in the shop of W. J.
Howes. For five years he worked as a journeyman for G.
W. Oliver and other master builders. Later, for two years
he was court clerk in the office of the Rensselaer County
Clerk. He is at present book-keeper and cashier for the
extensive brewing concern of Kennedy & Murphy. Mr.
McCormick is city clerk. He has held that important posi-
tion for several years with great credit to himself and satis-
faction to his friends. For fourteen years he sefved as
secretary of the Democratic General Committee. He was a
delegate to the Democratic State Convention at New York in
1888, and a delegate to the Democratic Judiciary Convention
at Albany in 1880. Among the civil offices he has held were
the following: Treasurer of St. Francis' Church, president
of the Y. M. C. L. A. Debating Society, president of the
Mount Ida Dramatic Club and treasurer of the Mount Ida
Benevolent Legion. Mr. McCormick's wife was Miss Johanna
Cronin. They have two children, boys.

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Janies V/. Coffey.

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Jairies V/. Coffey.

James W. Coffey was born in this city June 19, 1853.
His i)arents were Michael and Sarah Coffey. James W.
Coffey has resided here all his hfe. He received a splendid
education under the direction of the Christian Brothers, and
then entered the office of Runkle & Flagg. Later he was
with Flagg & Neary, Neher & Calder and Thomas Neary.
For Neher & Calder he was a book-keeper, and with the
other firms a law clerk. He is now a practicing lawyer. He
was the mayor's private secretary from 1882 until 1889,
serving under Mayors Fitzgerald and Whelan. Mr. Coffey
was appointed assistant police magistrate June 20, 1889,
which position he now holds. From January, 1882, to
January, 1883, he was president of the Robert Emmet
Association. He is a member of the latter association, of
the Catholic Benevolent Legion and of the Alunmi Associa-
tion of the Christian Brothers' Academy. He was married
June 22, 1875, to Miss Nora A. Hartigan, daughter of ex-
Supervisor Maurice Hartigan. He has four children, two
boys and two girls.

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Cornelius jiannaii.

Corrielius jia^iiaii.

Cornelius Hannan was born Jan. 31, 1856, at Gateshead,
County of Durham, England. His father was James Hanuan
and his mother Margaret Kiely, l)oth of whom were born in
Ireland. When Cornelius was very small his parents removed
to this country and settled in West Troy. Later they moved
to Saratoga County and there he remained for twenty-three
years, coming to this city in 1S81 from Ballston. Mr.
Hannan obtained his education in the public schools of
Ballston and at St. Mary's Academy, this city, from which
he graduated in 1881. He entered the law office of Townsend
& Roche in September of that year and was admitted to' the
bar just three years later. While residing in Saratoga County
Mr. Hannan taught school and worked at farming. Mr.
Hannan is a member of the Robert Emmet Association, and
is one of the brightest young lawyers in the State. On Aug.
1, 1889, he was appointed private secretary to Mayor Whelan.

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John J. Evers.

Jo1t.Ii J. EveFS.

John J. Evers was born in this city Jnne 1, 1848. His
parents were Michael Evers and Mary Gaffigan. All of Mr.
Evers' life has been spent in this city. After attending the
Christian Brothers' Academy he learned the niolder's trade
and worked for Fnller, Warren & Co. and CI. W. Swett &
Co. He was employed ten years at his trade. For three
years he was employed by his brother, Thomas F. Evers, and
for two years held a United States government clerkship.
At present he is the assistant clerk of the Board of Water
Commissioners. For a number of years Mr. Evers was a
member of the Board of School Commissioners, and he ac-ted
as president of that body. He has served as corresponding-
representative of Iron Molders' Union, No. 2. He is a mem-
ber of the Union, a member of Byron Council, C. B. L., and
a member of the Americus Club. His wife was Miss Ellen
Keating, and he has seven children, four boys and three girls.

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Qeorge J^Ienry jVEead.

Alderman George H. Mead was born in this city June
12, 1853. His parents were John Mead and Mary Caufield.
He received his education under the care of the Christian
Brothers, and learned the trade of a cigarniaker at whicli he
worked in various parts of the country. He served a term
as president of the Cigarmakers' Union, No, 15, of New York.
For ten years he was the foreman in W. A. Lent & Co.'s
manufactory in this city. At present he is engaged in the
hotel business. January 1, 1881, Alderman Mead was mar-
ried to Miss Elizabeth Agnes Daigneault. For several years
he has represented the First Ward in the Common Council,
and for two years he was the presiding officer of that body.
He is a member of Emerald Beneficial Association, the
Exempt Firemen's Association, the Osgood Steamer Com-
pany, the Adonis Club, the Y. M. C. L. A., the Edward
Murphy, Jr., Association (of which he is a trustee), and the
Liquor Dealers' Association. He is an honorary member of
the Cigarmakers' Union, No. 0, and has served as president
of the Y. M. C. L. A. Alderman Mead is vice-president
of the National League of Democratic Clubs, for the State of
New York. He was an energetic member of the Centen-
nial Committee of One Hundred, and is one of Troy's most
promising young men.

William jiolnies.

Williairi plolmes.

William Holmes was born in this city December 20, 1848.
His parents were William Holmes and Ellen Rainey. Mr.
Holmes attended the Fonrth Ward public school. He learned
the trade of machinery molder at Starbuck's works and was
engaged at hi& trade for nine years. In 1873 he went into
the retail liquor business. In 1876 he was appointed on the
detective force and remained in police service five years and
nine months. Resigning from the force he associated himself
with John F. Ahern in the retail liquor trade at No. 6 Third
Street. Their present place of business is No. 12 Third
Street. Mr. Holmes was president of the Liquor Dealers'
Association for one year and vice-president for three years.
He is now vice-president of the State organization. He is a
member of the Pilsner Democratic Club, and has served as
vice-president. For six years he was a member of the Board
of School Commissioners. He is now a Fire Commissioner
and president of the Board. For one term he was caj^tain of
the Ranken Steamer Company and for three years he was
treasurer of the company. He is a member of the Exempt
Firemen's Association. In lS7r> he was a delegate to the
Democratic State Convention at Syracuse. At present he
represents the Fourth Ward in the Democratic General Com-
mittee. Mr. Holmes is also a member of the Y. M. C. L. A.
He is married, his wife's maiden name being Miss Annie
Smith. He has seven children.

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Jolm Patricl^ Curley.

Johii Patricl^ Curley.

On Nov. 17, lSr)G, John P. Curley was born in this city,
and here he has always resided. His parents were Patrick
and Margaret Curley. After attending the public schools
and the parochial schools of the Sisters and Christian
Brothers, Mr. Curley entered the law office of the late John
H. Colby. In due time he was admitted to the bar. He
served as a law clerk for about six years. Mr. Curley is
serving his third term as Justice of the Justices' Court. On
the bench he has been eminently successful. He has served
as president and vice-president of the Y. M. C. L. A. and
was president of the Bachelors' Club for two years. He is
also a member of the A. O. H., Eobert Emmet Association,
Y. M. C. L. A., Bachelors' Club, Edward Murphy, Jr.,
Association and Pilsner Democratic Club. On Nov. 20, 1888,
Mr. Curley was married to Mary A. V. Stanton, daughter of
John Stanton. The subject of this sketch illustrates in his
life the success which always rewards conscientious effort.
Mr. Curley has a large legal practice, and is recognized as a
leading member of the Eensselaer County bar.

Jolin P. Kelly.

John P. l(elly.

John P. Kelly was born in this city 2l» years ago. He
obtained his education in the pubhc schools. In the otifices of
the late Thomas Neary and the late Judge E. Smith Strait, he
studied law, and in ISSl was admitted to the bar. Mr, Kelly
also worked in the Clinton foundry. He began the study of
his profession when only 14 years old. In 1886 and '87 he
was the attorney for the Board of Supervisors, and at the
present time he is assistant district attorney of Eensselaer
County. He was president of the Y. M. C. L. A. in 18S6,
and has been treasurer of the Edward Murphy, Jr., Associa-
tion. Mr. Kelly was married in November, 1887, to Miss
Ellen Fleming and has one child, a daughter.

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John Edward l(elly.

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John Edward K^elly.

John -E. Kelly was born in this city Feb. 11, 1808, his
parents being Edward and Catherine Kelly. In Troy Mr.
Kelly has always made his home. He received his education
at the Christian Brothers' Academy and at the Troy High
School. In the latter institution he was a student for two
years and a half. Mr. Kelly is one of the best stenographers
in the country, and for several years has been doing the Court
reporting in Rensselaer, Columbia and the other counties of
this judicial district. He has been doing stenographic work
since 1882, and officially since Jan. 1, 1888. Mr. Kehy is also
a practicing lawyer. He is the official stenographer of the
Rensselaer County Court, having been appointed by Judge
Fursman, and is also the official stenographer of tlie Colum-
bia County Court, under the appointment of Judge McClel-
lan. He is a member of the Bachelors' Club, the W. S. Earl
Boat Club, and the J. C. Osgood Steamer Company. Mr.
Kelly has the distinction of having been appointed stenogra-
pher of the Columbia County Court when he was only 21
years old, making him the youngest official stenographei- in
the State of New York.

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Edward J. ]V[cl(eiiiia.

Edward J. McKenna was born in this citv March 10,
1853. His parents were John and EHzabeth McKenna. He
has always hved in Troy. Mr. McKenna was educated by
the Christian Brothers and at the Second Ward pubHc school.
He started in life as a dry goods clerk, but later secured an
appointment on the Troy police as a detective. He was pro-
moted to police captain and is now in charge of the Third
Precinct, having been in police service for fourteen years.
He is a member and a trustee of the Hugh EankeiT Steamer
Company, and has been county sealer of weights and meas-
ures and a trustee of the Exempt Firemen's Association.

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V/altep K. JVEyers.

"Walter K. J^yers.

Walter A. Myers was born Nov. 1, 1852, in this city.
His parents were Michael and Catherine Myers, and he has
always resided in this city. He obtained his education in the
public schools, and from 18(38 to 1872 worked at the molder's
trade. In 1879, '80 and '81 he was connected with the State
Survey. In 1881 he was elected a general assessor for the
term of three years, and later was made captain of police.
He is now in charge of the First Precinct. Captain Myers
represented the Ninth Ward in the Common Council from
1874 to 188(1, and was recognized as one of the most energetic
and conscientious of our city fathers. He was married Jan.
1, 1876, to Miss Jennie Heffernan, and has one child, a son
12 years old.

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Jol^n prancis yihern.

Joh.li p^pancis /Ihern.

John F. Ahern was born in this city March 1, 1850, the
eldest son of Michael Ahern and Margaret Duffy. Mr.
Ahern attended the public and the Christian Brothers'
Schools and for four years was an assiduous student at
Fordham College. His first work was as clerk of his father's
hotel, the Union House. In 1873 he engaged in the retail
liquor business on Third Street, the old "Crystal." Later he
was for two years a clerk in the office of the Secretary of
State, at Al])any. He was a deputy sheriff under Sheriff
Ingram. In 1882, associated with William Holmes, he
opened a retail liquor establishment, and the firm^re still in
business at No. 12 Third Street. Mr. Ahern is treasurer of
the Pilsner Democratic Club, a member of the Y. M. C. L. A.
and the Bachelors' Club, He is also president of the Munici-
pal Civil Service Board. He has been an alternate to several
Democratic State conventions, and a ward committeeman
for many years. He acted as treasurer of the committee
which entertained Tammany Hall in this city in 1888. Mr.
Ahern is married, his wife being Miss Julia F. Hickey.

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William jieniy I^yan.

V/illiani plenry I^yan.

William H. Ryan was born in the city of New York
March !♦, 1856. His parents were Thomas and Margaret
Ryan. When Mr. Ryan was four years of age his family
removed to this city, and here he has remained ever since.
He was educated in the pubhc schools. For five years Mr.
Ryan held a responsible position in the Troy Times office, and
for ten years he was book-keeper for G. V. S. Quackenbush
& Co., dry goods dealers. The past three years he has been
book-keeper in the Troy Press office. He was manager of
the paper when Edward Murphy, Jr. , was in control of that
property, and at the present time Mr. Ryan is vice-president
and secretary of the Press Company. He is a thoroughly
equipped newspaper man, and is one of the best accountants
in the State.

Joliii ^uigley.

John Quigley was born July 1, 1842, on board the sailing
vessel "Niles," Captain Kenny, of Portland, Me. The ship
was being flagged for the approaching Fourth of July when
Mr. Quigfey came into the world to greet the 120 passengers
on the good ship "Niles." He was three weeks old when
the vessel landed at New York. July 22, having occupied
seven weeks in the passage over. Mr. Quigley's parents
were Michael Quigley and Mary Collins. After remaining in
New York they came to Troy, and here Mr. Quigley has since
resided. He was educated in the public schools. For two
years he was captain of police in the First Precinct, for four
years captain in the Second Precinct, and for two years and
six months superintendent of the Troy Police Force. From
1877 to 1880 he was a deputy sheriff. He was in command
of the Pinkerton force on the Sheepshead Bay race track for
two years, and for one year he did police duty in Canada.
At pres'Uit he is superintendent of streets. He is a member
of the Robert Emmet Association and an honorary member
of the Molders' Union, which trade he learned and worked
at for several years. His wife's maiden name was Mary
Collins. They have eight children, five boys and three girls.
It was during Superintendent Quigley's administration that
"Sheeny Mike" was caught and ex-Chamberlain Church
arrested.

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^Ilexander Q. Gunningliairt.

j^leXcirider Q. Cuririingham.

Alexander G. Cunningham was born in Quebec May '2,
1855. His parents were Donald and Ellen Cunningham.
When in his fourth year he was taken with his family to
Montreal, where he lived six years. The past twenty-three
years Mr. Cunningham has resided in Troy. After attend-
ing the Christian Brothers' Academy for several years he
entered the employ of William Collins, sash and blind manu-
facturer, and remained with him as salesman until Mr.
Collins sold out to Mann & Dater. On Ai)ril 5, 1886, Mr.
Cunningham formed a, copartnership with J. L. Young,
James R. Walsh and James T. Young, and the ffrm, under
the name of Cunningham, Young & Co., have since been
engaged in the manufacture of doors and blinds. They have
a very large factory in West Troy. In 1879 and '80 Mr.
Cunningham was vice-president of the Y. M, C. L. A. He
is a member of the Edward Murphy, Jr., Association, the
Y. M. C. L. A., the Robert Emmet Association and the
Citizens' Corps. He was married Jan. 20, 1881, to Miss Mary
A. Tracey.

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pchael f-. I^yaia.

Michael F. Ryax, son of Michael and Mary Ryan, was
born in this city Jan. 4, 1856. His education was obtained
under the direction of the Christian Brothers. For ten years
he worked at the shoemaking trade, and for seven years was
a clerk in Bryan & Xugent's shoe store. In 1887 he was
elected clerk of the Board of School Commissioners, succeed-
ing the late Thomas W. Ryan, and has been twice reelected.
He is a member of the Robert Emmet Association and the
Bachelors' Club. Mr. Ryan's wife, Miss Theresa Collins, is a
sister of Supervisor Collins of the Tenth Ward.

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James ^. JVEurray.

James T. Murray is the sou of Martin and Ellen Murray,
and was born in Rosscommon, Ireland, April 9, 1859. He
has lived in Troy since 1863. Mr. Murray received his
education in the public schools, the Christian Brothers'
Academy and the High School, and was well equipped for
the earnest work of life. After working as book-keeper for
M. M. Willson, wholesale druggist, and Giles & Son, stove
manufacturers, Mr. Murray accepted the position of principal
of the Ninth Ward School, No. 2, where he remained three
years. Meanwhile he had studied law. In 1881 he was
admitted to the bar, and since has devoted all his time to his
profession. Among the positions which Mr. Murray has
filled are the following: President of the Debating Society
of the Y. M. A., manager of the Y. M. C. L. A. and attorney
for the Board of Supervisors in 1881, '82 and '83. He is a
member of the Bachelors' Club and the Y. M. C. L. A. Mr.
Murray studied law in the office of Smith, Fursman &
Cowen.

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James 1^. Quinn.

James T. Quixn was born in this city in 1855. His
parents were Michael and Esther Quinn. He has always
lived in Troy. After a course at the Christian Brothers'
Academy, Mr. Quinn learned the carpenter's trade, at which
he worked for twelve years. He is now in the liquor busi-
ness. When Postmaster Dolan retired from the Common
Council Mr. Quinn was elected to succeed him, representing
the Eleventh Ward. He is a member of the Pilsner Demo-
cratic Club, the Edward Dolan Association and the Liquor
Dealers' Association. Mr. Quinn has been signally successful
both in l)usiness and political life.

—97-

?^i»!::!!!':i?'iM::::;|iJ5::;;:::- :; ; : ■ '■ :

Gorrielius }!i. Dorsey.

Cornelius JYI. Dorsey.

Cornelius M. Dorset first saw the light of day April 9,
1853, in London, England. His parents were James and
Catherine Dorsey. He came to Troy in Jnne, 1864. His
family removed to Saratoga, but a year later came back to
Troy. Mr. Dorsey's education was obtained in the public
schools and at the Christian Brothers' Academy. At the age
of sixteen he went to learn the painter's trade, and with the
exception of four years, when he was employed at the Eens-
selaer Eail Mill, has worked at it ever since. He formed a
copartnership, in 1883, with Daniel T. Holland, and the firm
of Holland & Dorsey are now doing business at .No. 193
Fourth Street. Mr. Dorsey was a prominent member of the
Y. M. F. M. T. A. B. Society, No. 1, and held the offices of
president and secretary at different times. He is a member
of the C. B. L., Branch 06, the Y. M. C. L. A. and the
Edward Murphy, Jr., Association. He is married, his wife
being Miss Mary Moylan.

—101-

Williairi jJutton, Jr.

William Huttox, Jr., was born in this city Sept. 1, 18r>3,
his parents being WilHam Hutton and Bridget McGowan.
Mr. Hutton has always made his home in Troy. After
graduating from the Christian Brothers' Academy he entered
the employ of E. W. Millard, the undertaker, where he
remained one year. Later he was in the employ of John
McBride, but the past four years the subject of this sketch
has b- en his father's book-keeper. Mr. Hutton is a member
of th( Y. M. C. L. A., Christian Brothers' Alumni and the
Bache'ors' Club. He was married Nov. 28, 1888, to Miss
Carrie, the accomplished daughter of William Kennedy, our
much respected townsman.

—105—

]\Iarl^ J. Goyle.

ji^vx J. eoyie.

Mark J. Coyle was born in Quincy, Mass., Sept. 1, 1863.
His parents were Mark J. and Mary A. Coyle. At the age of
seven Mark removed with his parents to Albany, where he
lived four years. The past fourteen years he has resided in
Troy. Mr. Coyle received his education in the public schools
of Quincy, Mass., and Albany, N. Y. When a mere lad he
entered the employ of Daniel Walters, the Albany oyster
dealer, and came to Troy with Mr. Walters when the latter
removed his business to this city. In 1882 Mr. Coyle bought
out Mr. Walters' stand at No. 90 Third Street. In May, 1888,
he removed to No. OO Third Street, opposite the City Hall,
where he is at present located. Mr. Coyle is a prominent
member of the Edward Murphy, Jr., Association-, of which
he held the office of treasurer. He is now one of the
trustees. He is also a member of the Bachelors' Club, the
Y. M. C. L. A. and the Liquor Dealers' Association. Few
young men in this or any other city have done so much for
their parents and those dependent upon them as has Mark J.
Coyle, and his success in business has been most gratifying
to his host of friends.

—109-

]\lichael Qrace.

]V[ichael Qpace.

Michael Grace, son of John and Ellen Grace, was born
in this city April 10, 1 849. In Troy he has always made his
home. After obtaining a sound education at St. Joseph's
School he began his apprenticeship at the molding trade in
1867, and followed it until 1877, when he was appointed a
patrolman on the Troy Police Force. He was promoted to
the post of sergeant in 1881, and was reappointed in Novem-
ber, 1885. Sergeant Grace is assigned to the First Precinct.
The only organizations of which he has been a member are
the Holders' Union and Y. M. F. M. T. A. B. Society, No. 1.
He has an enviable record on the police force, and is popular
and respected.

—113 -

IDaniel R. jiealy.

Dariiel £. piealy.

Daniel A. Healy was born in this city twenty-three
years ago. He is the son of Martin Healy. After a
thorough course in the pubhc schools he determined to learn
the druggist's business, and for several years he was in the
employ of Joseph Donnelly, at the corner of Adams and
Second Streets, acting as prescription clerk. He passed a
brilliant examination as a pharmacist. August 1, 1887, Mr.
Healy went into business for himself at No. 506 Second
Street, and a few months ago, associated with his brother,
John, he opened a branch establishment at No. 223 Fourth
Street, under the firm name of J J. Healy & Co. Daniel
Healy has been collector of Iron Works Council, C. B. L.,
since its organization.

—117-

Janies J. Duffy.

Janies J. Duffy.

James J. Duffy, son of James Duffy and Ellen McEn-
crow, was born in this city December 25, 1855. With the
exception of four years, ending 18T6, when he resided in St.
Louis, Mr. Duffy has always resided in Troy. He was
educated at the Christian Brothers' Academy. For four
years he was agent for Coleman Bros., the Albany brewers.
At present he is in the wholesale liquor business in this city.
He is a member of the Pilsner Club, the W. S. Earl Boat
Club, the A. 0. H., the Emeralds, and Olympic Council, C. B.
L. Mr. Duffy is married, his wife being Miss Jennie Mc-
Entire, of Brooklyn. They have three children, Nellie, aged
8; James, aged 6, and Mary, aged 4 years.

—121-

John J. Pupcell.

John J. Purcell was born in Ireland March 22, 1858,
while his parents, John C. Purcell and Johanna Williams,
were on a visit to the old country. He was two months old
when he first breathed the air of free America. He obtained
his education in the Christian Brothers' School, the public
schools and at the High School, and learned the plumbing
trade from the late John E. Smith, of Nos. 5 and 7 State
Street. Mr. Purcell started in business for himself in 1882,
at No. 412 Second Street, and is now associated with his
brother, Thomas B. Purcell. He is in the plumbing, gas and
steam fitting trade at Nos. 411 and 413 Second Street. In
1883 he was elected a member of the Common Council from
the Twelfth Ward, and he is still a member of the Board.
For three years he was a manager of the Y. M. C. L. A. and
for three years he was treasurer of the organization. He is
a member of the Y. M. C. L. A., Emeralds, Branch 6, and
the A. 0. H., No. 1. Mr. Purcell was married Nov. 2, 1888,
to Miss Annie F. Donovan.

-125—

Williani ji. Jrlayries.

William H. Haynes, son of Winslow Haynes and
Catherine Pillion, was born in this city in 1851, and has lived
here all his life. He was educated in the public schools and
the Christian Brothers' Academy. Upon leaving school he
determined to learn the trade of a carpenter. He served his
apprenticeship with George W. Oliver, and then formed a
copartnership with John Bulmer, under the firm name of
Bulmer & Haynes, contractors and builders. These gentle-
men have been very successful in their business. Mr.
Haynes served as president of the Boss Builders' Association
for three successive terms. He is a member of this associa-
tion and of the Edward Dolan Association. Mr. Haynes'
estimable wife. Miss Lizzie Bulmer, to whom he was married.
Oct. 12, 1878, died Jan. 23, 1889.

—129-

Edward K, LoYelocl^.

• Edward A. Lovelocl^.

Edward A. Lovelock was born August 19, 1862, at
Sheffield, Mass., the son of Patrick and Kate Lovelock.
During his early years Mr. Lovelock's parents resided in Half
Moon, Saratoga County, West Troy and Brunswick, but the
greater part of his life has been spent in this city. He
attended the country schools, and, later, worked in the
rolling mill, at the cigar business and at farming. At
present he is in the retail liquor trade. He has been captain
and trustee of the W. S. Earl Boat Club, and is now a mem-
ber of the Board of Managers of the Y. M. C. L. A." He is
also a member of the Washington Volunteer Steamer Com-
pany and the United States Coasting Club. In business Mr.
Lovelock has been very successful.

— 1.'!3-

Daniel 1'. plolknd.

Daniel, T. Holland was born Nov. 4, 1853, at Scranton,
Pa. He was the son of Stephen and Ellen Holland. The
family came to Troy March 4, 18r)T. Mr. Holland was
educated at the Christian Brothers' Academy and the Bryant,
Stratton & Cornell Business College. When quite young
Mr. Holland kept newsrooms at No. 299 Fourth Street and at
No. 90 Congress Street. He went into business later on with
his father, a dealer in picture frames, etc., but in 1870 sold
out and began an apprenticeship at the painter's trade with
the late John McKanua. He has followed that trade ever
since. At present he is associated with C. M. Dorsey, under
the tirm name of Holland & Dorsey, and they are doing a
general painting business. For fifteen years Mr. Holland has
been a member of the Y. M. F. M. T. A. B. Society, No. 1,
during which time he has held every office in the organiza-
tion. He is secretary of the Master Painters' and Decorators'
Association, and is also secretary of the State organization of
his craft. He is a member of the Edward Murphy, Jr.,
Association, and of the C. B. L., Branch No. 66, of which he
is a trustee. He was married Sept. 8, 1878, to Miss Mary J.
Farley, and has one child, a daughter, eight years old.

^'-

—137 —

James W. Daly.

Jairies V/. Daly.

James W. Daly was born in this city Dec. 14, 1857. His
parents were James and Ellen Daly. Mr. Daly attended the
public schools, and quite early in life entered the office of
Christie & Boardman, insurance agents. Later he was a
drug clerk in the wholesale house of Robinson & Church.
Mr. Daly subsequently served as book-keeper in the estab-
lishment of Holland & Thompson. When that fii-m retired
from the city Mr. Daly became associated with Messrs.
Chamberlain and Bottum, who successfully carried on the
business. Last year the firm was dissolved and Mr. Daly is
now associated with Mr. Bottum, and is conducting a large
steam, gas and plumbers' supplies store. He was elected
Alderman from the Eleventh Ward in 1S86 and was reelected
in 1888. Mr Daly took a prominent part in arranging Troy's
centennial celebration, and to his efforts much of the success
of the affair is due. Although still a very young man Mr.
Daly has made his mark in the business world.

— 141—

Ti^omas D. jJendy.

Thomas D. Hendy was born May 14, 1862, in this city, at
the corner of Ida and First Streets, and there he still resides.
His parents were Daniel and Margaret Hendy. Mr. Hendy
was educated at the Christian Brothers' Academy. For
twelve years he was a clerk. He is now in the liquor
business. He has served as manager of the Y. M. C. L. A.
and as secretary of the Debating Society. He is a member
of the Board of School Commissioners, and is probably the
youngest man who ever sat with that important city com-
mission. He is also a member of the Democratic County
Committee, the Pilsner Democratic Club and the Osgood
Steamer Company. He was married to Miss Lizzie C. Davis
Jan. 3, ISSl. She died July 18, 1888.

—115—

^amuel Edward plutton.

The subject of this sketch is the eldest son of WilHam
Hntton and Bridget McGowan. He was born in this city
June 25, 1S55. With the exception of the interval between
187(3 and 1881, when Mr. Hutton resided in New York, he
has always made Troy his home. He secured his education
at the Christian Brothers' Academy. After leaving school
he worked for three years in the foundry of William P.
Kellogg cSc Co. Then he entered his father's employ as book-
keeper and general manager of his large livery establishment.
Until recently, when he retired, Mr. Hutton was the senior
member of the firm of Hutton & Fennell, cigar manufac-
turers. The only political office he has ever held was that
of Eegistrar of Vital Statistics, from May 1885, to May,
1888. At present he is president of the Debating Society
of the Y. M. C. L. A., trustee of the F. W. Farnam
Steamer Company and recording secretary of the Edward
Murphy. Jr., Association. He is also a member of the
Bachelors' Club, Emerald Beneficial Association, Branch 6,
and Alumni Association of the Christian Brothers' Academy.
Mr. Hutton's wife was Miss Frances V. McCormick.

—149-

jiemy R. GonWay.

pleiiry A, CoriWay.

Henry A. Conway was born in this city August 8, 1859,
the son of John and Mary Conway. He was educated at
St. Peter's Parochial School, and then entered the employ of
John Skellie, retail liquor dealer, at No. C State Street. Five
years later Mr. Conway succeeded to the business. He has
never held political position, his taste not running in that
direction. He is a member of the Robert Emmet Associa-
tion, the Bachelors' Club and the Y. M. C. L. A. A few
years ago Mr. Conway sold out his State Street business to his
brother, William, and associating himself with his brother,
Daniel E., and the late Congressman Nicholas T. Kane,
purchased the old Sands brewery property on North Fourth
Street, and has since been engaged in the brewing of ales
and porters. The firm of Conway Bros. & Kane rates high
and is considered one of the leading brewing concerns of the
country. Mr. Conway's wife was Miss Teresa Healey, the
accomplished niece of the late Congressman Kane. Mr. and
Mrs. Conway have one child, a boy.

- 153-

jienry Joseph JVIcGoriiiicl^.

jJenry Joseph JVEcCormicl^.

Henry J. McCormick is the eldest son of John and
Catherine McCormick. He was born in West Troy Sept. 28,
1804. His parents removed to this city in 1870. Until
twelve years of age Henry attended the public schools.
Then he entered the Brothers' Academy, and in 1884 he
graduated with high honors from that institution. Imme-
diately after leaving school he began the study of law in the
office of Robertson & Foster, and in September, 1837, was
admitted to the bar. He enjoys a flattering practice, and is
recognized as an able and worthy young practitioner. He is
a member of the Y. M. C. L. A. and the Earl Boat Club.

—157—

John P. Preiidergast.

John P. Prenderciast was born in Manchester, England,
March 2, 1853, the son of Patrick and Catherine Prendergast.
For three years he resided in New York, bnt since January,
1859, he has hved in this city. He obtained his education at
the Christian Brothers' Academy and the Albany Medical
College. From 1870 until 1873 he served in Company B,
Sixth U. S. Cavalry, U. S. A. UiDon graduating from the
Albany Medical College he began to practice in this city, and
his success as a physician and surgeon has been marked.
He w^as city physician in 1880, and in 188-1, '8<>, 'S7 and '89
was jail physician. He is a member of the Hugh Ranken
Steamer Company, the E. B. A., Branch 3, and Mount
Olympus Council, No. 142, C. B. L. He was married June
22, 1881, to Miss Catherine Griffin.

-^4uJUJ^tl:l^^

-161-

'Patricl^ J. Delaney.

Patrick J. Delaney was born in Ireland July 4, 1863.
His parents were Martin Delaney and Julia Tracey. When
he was an infant, the Delaney family came to Troy, and here
the subject of this sketch has since resided. He was
educated by the Christian Brothers and then entered the
employ of the Burdett & Smith Co., stove manufacturers, as
book-keeper, where he has since remained. He represents
the Twelfth Ward in the Common Council, and has
frequently acted as chairman of that body. He is a
member of the J. C. Osgood Steamer Company, the Robert
Emmet Association and the Bachelors' Club. For so young
a man, Alderman Delaney has attained a remarkable
prominence in the community.

—165-

^hoirias B. Purcell.

Thomas B. Purcell was born in this city May 24, 1856,
his parents being John C. Purcell and Johanna Williams.
He was educated by the Christian Brothers, and then learned
the trade of a tinsmith from Michael Doherty, of No. 521
Fourth Street. In 18T6 Mr. Purcell went into business for
himself and from the very beginning was successful. His
present place of business is at Nos. 411 and 413 Second
Street. In 1887 he was elected a member of the Board of
Fire Commissioners and he is still a member of that Board.
He is president of A. 0. H., Xo. 1, president of the^ J. C.
Osgood Steamer Company, and was president of the Y. M.
F. M. T. A. B. Society, No. I. In 1885 and '86 he was Eens-
selaer County delegate of the A. 0. H. He was married
May 21, 1882, to Miss Margaret E. Crossen, and has two
children, daughters, aged six and tw^o years.

—169-

Joseph jienry Gavanaugl:i.

Joseph jienpy Cavaiiaugh.

Joseph H. Cavanaugh was born March 27, 1 859, in this
city. His parents were Patrick and Emma Cavanaugh, and
in this city he has always made his home. He was educated
at the Fourth Ward public school. His first work was done
in J. G. Bacon & Son's insurance office. Later he was clerk
for Judge & Cavanaugh, contractors, and learned the trade
of a mason. He is now a contractor and builder, and has
constructed many public works of great magnitude. Mr.
Cavanaugh represented the Fourth Ward in the Common
Council for one term. He is a member of the Pilsner Club,
is married and has one child, a little girl. His wife's maiden
name was Maggie E. Purcell.

—173-

aUc

x^

^^"^

Con. p. Burns.

Con. F. Burns, son of John W. and Ellen Burns, was
born in this city Nov. 4, ISUO. His father was Troy's leading
undertaker and all of his sons were given the best educa-
tional advaiitages. Con. graduated witli high honors from
the Christian Brothers' Academy, and immediately thereafter
entered his father's office. John W. Burns died April J),
1880, and to his business succeeded his sons, George and
Con. F. Two years later George died and at present the
subject of this sketch is at the head of the firm of J. W.
Burns' Sons, his associates being his brothers, James and
David. Con. is a member of the Bachelors' and Pilsner
Clubs, the Y. M. C. L. A., Trojan Hooks, Exempt Firemen's
Association, Undertakers' Association of the State (of which
for two years he has been treasurer) and the local association
of undertakers, of which he is president. Mr. Burns is the
president of the Bachelors' Club and has served as vice-presi-
dent and secretary of the organization. He is chairman of
the Board of Trustees of the Pilsner Club. For two years
he has been president of the St. Vincent Female Orphan
Asylum fair. Last year, under the direction of Mr. Burns,
the fair netted $8,000, marking it as the most successful
enterprise of the kind evei- held in Troy. Mr. Burns acted
as grand marshal of the monster Democratic parade in this
city in the fall of 1888.

-177-

Qeorge E. ^aiids.

George E. Sands was born in this city March 10, ISGl, his
parents being Daniel E. Sands and Ellen Madigan. George
was educated in the public schools, graduating with honors
from the High School in 18Y9. After serving as book-keeper
in Kennedy & Murphy's brewing establishment. Mr. Sands
accepted the position of principal of Ninth Ward School,
No. 2, where he remained until the discontinuance of the
school. Subsequently he held reportorial and editorial
positions on the Troy Standard, Telegram, Budget and Press,
and the Albany Sundaij Telegram, of which he was theiocal
business manager for Troy and the correspondent. Mr.
Sands abandoned journalism to accept a post of great
responsibility in the city comptroller's office, succeeding
George H. Coon. He has been president of the Debating
Society of the Y. M. C. L. A., and is a member of the
Wilham S. Earl Boat Club, Y. M. C. L. A. and the Pilsner
Democratic Club.

- ISl—

Edward L. Lyons.

Edward L. Lyons was born in this city January 29, 1863,
his parents being Edward and Ellen Lyons. He attended
the Brothers' Academy until 187!> when he removed to New
York. He graduated with high honors from the New York
University Medical College after six years of hard and
persistent study. In order to round out his medical educa-
tion Dr. Lyons visited Europe, where he devoted a year to
study and research, the most of the time being spent in
Berlin and Vienna. Dr. Lyons returned to Troy in October,
1888, and immediately attained success in the practice of his
sublime profession. Dr. Lyons is recognized as one of the
most promising of our younger generation of practitioners.
He is a member of the C. B. L. and A. 0. H., No. 2.

-185 —

V

Charles ji. p. Cary.

eiiarles J^. p. Gary.

Charles H. F. Gary, son of James and Mary Gary, was
bom in this city Feb. T), 180r>, in the house No. 10 Hill Street.
Mr. Gary has always lived in Troy. At the Christian
Brothers' Academy lie received a splendid education. April
29, 1886, he was admitted to partnership with his father in
the undertaking business. Their warerooms are located at
No. 227 Fourth Street. While in no way abandoning his
interest in the undertaking business, Mr. Gary embarked in
the retail boot and shoe trade at No. 281 Fourth Street on
July 20, 1880. In both his business ventures Mr. Gary has
achieved conspicuous success. He is a member of the
Edward Murphy, Jr. , Association, and is the marshal of that
organization. On February 11, 1880, he was married to Miss
Kittie Welch, an accomplished young lady, who has been to
him a wise counselor and conservative guide.

— i«i—

James P. J^Iooley.

m

James P. plooley.

James P. .Hooley was bom of Irish parents July 12, 1855,
in Port Chester, Conn. He came from New York to Troy in
1865. He attended St. Peter's School until he was twelve
years old, and then he entered a public school, where he
remained two years. He was apprenticed to learn the trade
of a molder at the age of seventeen, and after serving four
years was admitted to membership in the Iron Holders'
Union. In 1882 he was chosen a delegate to the Interna-
tional Holders' Convention held in Brooklyn. He was
elected third vice-president. Thereafter he became actively
engaged in the work of organizing lal)or societies. He was
chairman of the organizing committee of the Workingmen's
Assembly, and was three times elected organizer of the
Knights of Labor. Hr. Hooley personally investigated the
contract labor system in the State prisons. In the fall of
188-1 he was elected to the Assembly from the First District
of Rensselaer County. During the session of the Legislature
which followed contract prison labor was abolished, Hr.
Hooley having charge of this most important reform in the
Assembly. He was reelected to the Assembly in 1885, but
was defeated for a third term. In 1886 he attended the
convention of the International Iron Holders' Union held in
London, Canada, and was reelected a member of the Execu-

-193-

tive Board and of the Board of Trustees. In June, 18ST, he
was appointed a factory inspector. The following year he
was chosen vice-president of the International Iron Holders'
Union of North America at the Convention held in St. Louis.
Mr. Hooley is an accomplished musician, having been a
member of Doring's Band since 1876. Mr. Hooley's career
in politics was one long and determined effort to improve the
condition of the working classes, and the measure of success
he attained gave him a reputation wider than the State in
which he labored.

'N^.'- •/ ^ ,1

—194-

V

]V[ichael P. piahepty.

J^ichael P. Flaherty.

Michael P. Flaherty was born iu the First Ward of the
city of Troy January 14, 1850. His parents were John
Flaherty and Mary Heffernan, both natives of Ireland.
With the excel )tion of a few years, when he resided in New
York, the subject of this sketch has made his home in this
city. He was educated in the Christian Brothers' Academy.
He enlisted as a volunteer in the Ninety-first New York
Regiment, and has the distinction of having been one of the
youngest of the patriotic boys who went to the front when
the life of the nation was threatened. For seventeen years
he was employed as a time-keeper in the Rensselaer Iron
Works. He is at present engaged in the drug and grocery
trade, and has a very large and constantly increasing
business. Among the offices which Mr. Flaherty has filled
were prefect of the Young Men's Sodality of St. Joseph's
Church and president of the Five Points' Guards. He is a
member of the Edward Murphy, Jr., Association, the I. D.
K. Association, the Y. M. C. L. A., the Osgood Steamer
Company and the Five Points' Guards. Mr. Flaherty is
married, his wife's maiden name being Johanna M. Regan.
They have two children, a boy of sixteen and a girl of
thirteen.

-197-

pchael J:!. Keatini

Michael H. Keating was born March 31, 1860, in this
city. He is the son of John Keating and Mary Nutley, and
has always Hved in Troy. He secured his education at the
Sixth Ward PubHc School. For twelve years he was
hydraulic engineer at the steel works. Mr. Keating was
engaged for a year in the retail liquor business on River
Street, but several months ago he retired from the. trade.
He represents the Sixth Ward in the Common Council, and
is recognized as one of the ablest members of that body.
Mr. Keating is young and energetic and his future is full of
the ripest promise.

—201-

Jolin J. flartigan.

John J. Hartic4AN was born in this city October 31, 1853.
His parents were Maurice and Ellen Hartigan, the latter
recently deceased. It was at the Christian Brothers'
Academy that Mr. Hartigan obtained his splendid education.
Upon completing the course at the Academy he entered the
dry goods store of George Bristol & Co. He remained with
the succeeding firms, Church & Phalen and the Andrew M.
Church Company, until November 24, 1888, when he began
business for himself on King Street, ten doors below Jacob
Street, where he has already established a large dry goods
trade. Mr. Hartigan was vice-president of the Robert
Emmet Association in 1887, and was president of the same
organization in 1888 and 1889. In 1888 he was chosen vice-
president of the Alumni Association of the Christian
Brothers' Academy. For ten years, from 1875 to 1885, he
was a director of the Apollo Vocal Society. He is a member
of the Eobert Emmet Association, the Y. M. C. L. A. and
the Troy Vocal Society. Mr. Hartigan's wife was Miss
Libbie Clogan. To unflagging industry and a genius for the
business to which he has devoted his life is due Mr.
Hartigan's mercantile success.

205—

Tiiomas ^. f-ois^ii.

Thomas S. Facian was born in this city January 18, 1862.
He is the son of Michael G. and Catherine Fagan. Mr.
Fagan attended the iJubHc schools and in 1878 graduated
from the High School with the highest honors, being the
class valedictorian. He immediately entered Williams
College, from which he was graduated in 18S'2. He took the
prize for having taken the greatest number of prizes, a
remarkable distinction for the young student. For two
years he acted as tutor and assistant principal of the High
School in Troy. He studied law during his leisure time, and
in 1885 was admitted to the bar. Two years later he was
elected a justice of the Justices' Court of the city of Troy,
serving one term. He is a member of the Phi Beta- Kappa,
having been elected a member of the Williams College
Chapter in 1881 for excellence in scholarship. In 1881 he
was selected by the students of the college to receive Presi-
dent Carter on his inauguration as president of the college.
He is a lawyer of rare attainments and large practice. As a
public speaker, Mr. Fagan ranks high among the younger
generation of lawyers in this State.

—20!) —

7/illiam l'. Shields.

William T. Shields was born July 19, 1863, iu Jackson,
Washington County, N. Y. He is the son of John Shields
and Ellen O'Brien. He attended the public schools and the
Christian Brothers' Academy, and then learned the trade of
telegraph operator. He left Troy in 1881 and went to
Chicago, where he resided for some time, going thence to St.
Louis, where he worked as a telegrapher for eighteen
months. Later he was employed in New York. In 1884 he
returned to Troy and for a year received the United Press
report in the office of the Standard. After filling responsi-
ble positions in New York he accepted on October 9, 1887, the
position of Associated Press operator on the Telegram, where
for two years he did remarkably fine work which stamped
him as one of the best operators in the country. He was
one of the charter members of the Brotherhood of Telegra
phers in St. Louis and was its financial secretary. He is
married, his wife's maiden name being Margaret C.
O'Connor. They have two children, both boys.

—213-

^^^

N«

Jairies ji. I^yan.

James pi. I^yari.

James H. Eyan was born on Fourth Street, this city,
February 20, 1856, the son of Daniel and Honora Ryan.
After a preUminary course in the Christian Brothers'
Academy Mr. Eyan attended Manhattan Academy, Man-
hattan College, and Eock Hill College, Ellicott City, Md.
He received a finished education, and then studied law in
the office of H. A. Merritt. Immediately after his admission
to the bar he sprang into prominence as a pleader, and to-day
has few equals in this part of the State in criminal practice.
As the junior member of the firm of Merritt & Eyan he is
well and favorably known in this section. He has served as
attorney for the village of Greenbush, and this year is the
attorney for the Board of Supervisors of Eensselaer County.
He is a member of the Bachelors' Club. Mr. Eyan's wife
was Miss Ellen McNamara. They have two beautiful
children, Mary, aged 5, and Florence, aged 3.

-217—

•v

Johri E. jiealey.

Johii E. plealey.

John E, Healey, one of Troy's leading wholesale
merchants, was born thirty-four years ago, in West Troy,
of Irish parents. He was educated in the public schools and
the schools of the Christian Brothers. Mr. Healey entered
upon his business career, embarking in the wholesale produce
and commission business in the store No. i;»l Eiver St., corner
of State, in March, 1873. After using that location until the
spring of 1878, he moved farther up-tow^n with the drift of
trade, which was steadily going north of Fulton Market,
and is now located in the store No. 333 River St., which he
has adapted to his business by erecting an elaborate system
of refrigerators in the rear, on Mechanic St. end of the
building, this being a necessity to meet largely increased
trade requirements. His specialties are butter, cheese and
eggs. He was one of the first dealers north of New York to
adopt the use of refrigerator cars, and was the pioneer
receiver of the products of the North-West for this section.
Mr. Healey filled the position of school trustee for the Third
Ward, West Troy, for nine years, from 1S7G to 1885. He is
married and has four interesting children, two boys and two
girls. In his career Mr. Healey has exhibited what can be
accomplished by strict integrity and a close application to the
demands of business. He has been remarkably successful,
being well and favorably known throughout the West and
North-West, and possesses the confidence of all the
merchants of Troy.

—221-

JoY[ii ji. piaherty.

V

John pi. "piaherty.

John H. Flaherty was born in Troy July 23, 1863, and
here he has always lived. His parents were William H. and
Margaret Flaherty. In the Sisters' School, the Thirteenth
Ward Public School and the Troy Business College Mr.
Flaherty secured his education. For several years he
worked in markets and grocery stores, striving to master the
business. That he was successful is evidenced by the fact
that to-day he is the proprietor of a large grocery store which
enjoys a very profitable trade. For five consecutive years he
was the treasurer of the E. B. A., No. 3. He has also served
as president of the Y. M. C. L. A. and the Hugh Rauken
Steamer Company. He is a member of the executive board
of the G. B., E. B. A., of the State of New York, a member
of the Grocers' and Butchers' Association, E. B. A., No. 3,
Hugh Rauken Steamer Company and the Esek Bussey Hose
Company. Mr. Flaherty stands high in this community,
and his future is all that his friends could wish for him.

—225—

Joseph, pi. Brodericl^.

Joseph H. Broderick was born Sept. 11, 1855, in this
city. He is the son of Michael and Hannah Broderick.
After a pubhc school course Mr. Broderick learned the trade
of boiler maker, at which he worked for sixteen years. In
1884 he began the manufacture of cigars, and in that
business he has attained a flattering success. He is a mem-
ber of the Bachelors* Clul) and the Catholic Benevolent
Legion. Mr. Broderick's wife, Miss Mary Conway, died
Sept. lo, 1888. He has one child, a boy. Mr. Broderick is
essentially a business man. His social position is high, and
his future is bright with promise.

:-29-

pchael J. Duffy.

Michael J. Duffy was born in this city February IT,
18r)2, the son of James and Ellen Duffy. He has always
made his home in this city. For several years he was a
student in St. Laurent College, Montreal, and there he was
graduated and received a splendid education. Few young-
men are so fortunate in their educational advantages. After
leaving school he was employed for seven years as a book-
keeper. At present he is in the real estate and insurance
business. In 1888 he was president of the Y. M^ C. L. A.
He is a member of the Earl Boat Club and the Washington
Volunteer Steamer Company. From 1885 to 1888 he was the
secretary of the Earl Boat Club.

-233—

Ambrose l(elly.

£iribrose l(elly.

There is no better known business man in Troy than the
subject of this sketch. He was born in this city January 30,
1855. His parents were James and Mary A. Kelly. Mr.
Kelly was educated at the Christian Brothers' Academy, and
was, of course, thoroughly prepared for the work of a
business man. Upon leaving school, in 1869, Mr. Kelly
entered the employ of the late James Dennin, the grocer,
and remained until Mr. Dennin's death in 1882. For the
succeeding tw^o years Mr. Kelly conducted the business for
the estate of Mr. Dennin, and then he purchased the business
which he has made the best known grocery stand in Troy,
In 18T5-t; Mr. Kelly was the secretary of the Y. M. C. L. A.
He was a charter member and the first president oT Mount
Ida Council, C. B. L. He is also orator of the State
Council, C. B. L., and district deputy state chancellor.
He is a member of the Robert Emmet Association, the
Bachelors' Club and of several musical organizations. Mr.
Kelly was married in 1880 to Miss Mary Peters and has four
children, two boys and two girls.

-237—

■v

'^^^Ki;:-:;-^:;;::::;:.:::;:::::----

James G. ]\^inahan.

James C. JVEinaliaii.

James G. Mixahan was born in this city August 21, 1857,
the son of John and Mary Miuahan. He was educated in
the pubhc schools. On (3ctober 3, 18f>0, he began work as a
messenger boy in the office of the Western Union Company
and speedily learned the trade of telegraph operator, at
which he became remarkably expert. He managed the
Baltimore & Ohio and Mutual Union offices in this city, and
had the confidence of these great corporations. Among
operators Mr. Minahan was recognized as one of the best in
the country. He has made a special study of electrical
science, and at present is assistant manager of the Troy
Electric Light Company. He is a leading member of the
Bachelors' Club. Mr. Minahan was married October 24, 1888,
to Miss Margaret English, daughter of John English.

-241

Bernard ]V[. I^oarl^e.

Bernard M. Roarke was born in Ireland December 19,
1813, the son of Patrick Roarke and Mary Malone. He has
resided in Albany and Troy nearly all of his life. He
attended the Brothers' Academy and the public schools. He
first worked for Stevens & Rising, the Cannon Place Mer-
chants, and later was in the employ of the Hudson River
Raihoad Company under Mr. Toucey, now the superin-
tendent of the Central-Hudson. He worked also on the old
Rensselaer & Saratoga Road, and afterward learned the
trade of a brick-layer. He remained steadily at his trade
until 1870 when he was appointed a detective on the police
force. He did police duty until 1883, winning the highest
encomiums from his superiors for his faithfulness. In
1883 he was chosen to represent the Eighth Ward in
the Common Council, and so ably did he serve his con-
stituents that he was reelected in 1885 and in 1887. He
declined a renomination last year. May 10, 1886, Alderman
Roarke was appointed a custom-house officer and he served
three years. He is at present in the retail liquor trade at the
corner of Washington and Fourth Streets. He was married
January 6, 1886, to Miss Catherine Halpin, and has two
pretty and bright children. Bernard Roarke is one of the
most popular men in Troy. He has innumerable friends
who are as devoted to him as he is to them.

—245-

John pi. Qleason.

John H. Gleason, one of Troy's most i)opular citizens,
was born in Schenectady, N. Y., September 25, 1S41. He
lived in " (!)ld Dorp " until he was twelve years of age when
he came to Troy and attended school for three years. At
the expiration of this period he returned to Schenectady,
but in his eighteenth year he decided to learn tlie trade of a
blacksmith and came to Troy for that purpose. He served a
thorough apprenticeship with Daniel Lucey and Culkin &
Donohue. For the five following years he worked in the
shops on Starbuck's Island. Then he went into the black-
smithing business for himself at No. 124 Fourth Sti-eet where
he remained five years, moving to the Dennin Building, at
the foot of Fulton Street. He rented the ship-yard from the
city and retained possession of it for six years. While he
controlled this yard which has since disappeared, occurred
the famous Gleason-Hancock war. The Hancock line of
steamers insisted on landing at Mr. Gleason's dock and
refused to recognize the fact that he was the tenant and the
city the landlord. Mr. Gleason triumi3hed in the end, and
the whole city was brought to admire his pluck and determi-
nation. When his lease of the ship-yard expired Mr.
Gleason erected a brick shop at the foot of the street and
remained there in business until two years ago, when he was

— 2'1!)-

appointed assistant superintendent of the water-works and
keeper of tlie reserv^oirs. These positions he still holds, dis-
charging their onerous and responsible duties with eminent
satisfaction. For nine years Mr. Gleason was a member of
the Board of School Commissioners. He refused an offer of
the presidency of this commission. For one year, under
Governor John T. Hoffman, he was inspector of steam
boilers for this Congressional District. Mr. Gleason was a
deputy sheriff' for three years under Sheriff McKeon, for
three years under Sheriff Hotchkin and for three years under
Sheriff Eeynolds. Mr. Gleason has been prominent for years
in the councils of the Democratic party. He was a delegate
to the Saratoga convention which two years ago re-nomi-
nated Governor David B. Hill. Mr. Gleason is a member of
the Pilsners, the Edward Murphy, Jr.. Association and the
Exempt Firemen's Association. He is married, his wife
having been Miss Margaret E. Inwood. Three children,
John E., Robert I. and Mary Alice, are the light and the joy
of the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Gleason. A daughter, who wa&
a teacher in the public schools, died not long since.

—2.^0 -

Williaiii I^. Sweeney.

William R. Sweeney was born in Tipperary, Ireland, in
1854, being the son of Edmund Sweeney and Winifred
(J'Donnell. Both of his parents are dead. Since boyhood
the subject of this sketch has resided in Troy. He obtained
a splendid education at the Christian Brothers' Academy of
this city. From a small beginning Mr. Sweeney at present
is the proprietor of one of the largest bakeries in the city.
He employs twenty hands and has five delivery wagons on
the road every day distributing the product of his immense
bakery. In addition to this Mr. Sweeney is the wholesale
agent for this section of the celebrated Kennedy Cracker Co.
of Cambridgeport, Mass. He has been prefect of the Young
Men's Sodality of St. Joseph's Church, president of St.
Joseph's Literary Association, treasurer of the J. C. Osgood
Steamer Company, and is at present a member of the Byron
Literary Association, a member of the Executive Committee
of the Citizens' Association, representing the Twelfth Ward
in that body, on the Executive Committee of the Young
Men's Democratic Club, a member of the Robert Enunet
Association and a trustee of the Alumni Association of St.
Mary's Academy. He is married, his wife being the
daughter of the Hon. James Ryan, Jr., of this city. They
have six children living and two dead. As an evidence of
the esteem in which he is held in this community, Mr.
Sweeney has recently been unanimously elected and is now
acting as clerk of the new Public Improvement Commission.

-253-

Johii P. Powers.

Johri P. Powers.

John Pajrick Powers was born in Oneida, N. Y., July
22, 1855. His father was Patrick Powers and his mother
Mary Dunlay. The Powers family moved to Troy twenty-
one years ago and here John has ever since made his home.
He was educated at the Brothers' Academy and was then
apprenticed to learn the trade of a compositor in the office of
the Troy Press. Having learned the trade he worked for a
time on the Standard. Eleven years ago he quit the "case"
and became book-keeper in the Press counting room. For
three years he served as a clerk in the office of the State
Board of Arbitration. For three years he was the efficient
and enterprising manager of Eand's Opera House. He has
been connected with a number of theatrical ventures. At
present he is treasurer of the Griswold Opera House. He
was a member of the Y. M. F. M. T. A. B. Society for twelve
years. He is a member of the Edward Murphy, Jr., Asso-
ciation. Mr. Powers is married and has two bright children.
His wife was Miss Mary McDonnell.

—257—

T[^hoinas P. DoWlini

Thomas P. Dowling was born in this city December 28,
1854, the son of Edward DowUng, who was killed at the
battle of Gettysburg July 4, 1863, and Anna Cassidy Lang-
ford. The parents of Mr. Dowling were natives of Ireland,
but they were married in this city. In the public schools
Mr. Dowling obtained his education. He began early to
make his way in the world, and, like many other men who
have attained prominence and high business standing in this
community, delivered the daily and weekly papers over long
and tiresome routes. He worked for Levi Willard and H. B.
Nims, the stationers, and later, for seven years, was in the
employ of the Granite Monument Works. In 1877 he
entered the employ of E. F. Rogers, the Sixth Street laun-
dryman, at a small salary. He quickly mastered the busi-
ness and, upon the retirement of Mr. Rogers, became the
proprietor of one of the best -known concerns of the kind in
the country. The laundry turns out an immense amount
of work, and is famed for its excellence all over the
country. From 188.') to 1889 Mr. Dowling was a member
of the Municipal Civil Service Board. In 1885 he was elected
treasurer of the Board of Trustees of the Troy fire depart-
ment, serving in that capacity until the present year. He is

— 2G1-

a member of the Robert Emmet Association, the Bachelors'
Chib and the Trojan Hooks. Mr. Dowhng's wife is Miss
Mary F. Keenan, daughter of ex-Sheriff Keenan. They
have one child, a bright three-year-old boy. For so young a
man Mr. Dowling has achieved marvelous success. In his
life, boys who are struggling along to-day should find the
encouragement to lead them to persistent, honorable and
earnest endeavor.

-L'OJ—

Deriiiis J. Gunirriings.

Deiiiiis J. Cunjniings.

Dennis J. Cummings was born in this city December 3,
1852, the son of Thomas and Mary Cummings. After
attending the pubHc schools until he had obtained a good
education he was apprenticed to learn the trade of a
carpenter, at which he worked for six years. For several
years past he has been in the retail liquor trade, and has
been very successful. Mr. Cummings has been prominent in
politics, having served in the Board of Supervisors and as
coroner of the county. He is a member of the William S.
Earl Boat Club, the Pilsner Democratic Club and the I. D. K.
Association. He was married June 13, 1870, to Miss Mary
Duffy. They have three children, tw^o girls and a boy. Mr.
Cummings is well and favorably known in this section, and
his popularity with all classes of people is marked. In 1870,
through the influence of the late Hon. John L. Flagg, Mr.
Cummings was appointed a page in the Assembly. The
following year he joined the Washington Volunteer Steamer
Company and later the Charles Eddy Steamer Company,
serving his term in each. For two years he filled the office
of secretary of the Eddy Company and he was also a trustee
for two years of the same company. He is now a prominent
member of the Exempt Firemen's Association. Mr. Cum-

-205-

niings was elected to represent the Tenth Ward in the Board
of Supervisors in 1882 and was reelected the following year.
His record in the Board was so creditable that his friends
easily secured his nomination for coroner, to which office he
was elected, served for two terms and discharged the duties
with credit to himself and satisfaction to the electors of the
county.

-2(iC -

.\V ,\

John p. Barry.

John p. Barry.

John F. Barry was born in this city September 14, 1859^
the son of John and Johanna Barry. He obtained his
education in the pubhc schools. For two years he worked a&
a messenger boy in the office of the Western Union Tele-
graph Company in this city. In 1876 he was apprenticed to
learn the trade of a compositor in the Whig office. Later he
worked on the Observer and for five years worked in the
Times composing room. In 1885 he embarked in the grocery
business and is still in that business, having a large store at
No. 728 River Street. He is the secretary of the Grocers'
and Butchers' Association, is interested in the Pioneer Build-
ing-Loan Association, is a past member of the Y. M. F. M.
T. A. B. Society and for eight years was a member of
Typographical Union, No. 52. He was a member of the
Order of Elks and was one of the original members of E. B.
A., Branch 3, and in 1876 was president of the American
Social Club. He was married June 26, 1883, to Miss Mary A.
Lamb. They have three interesting children, two boys and
a girl. Mr. Barry is one of the leading grocers of the city
and commands the confidence of the business public

-269—

Johri ji. GoUiiis.

John H. Collins was born November 1, 1850, in Crescent,
Saratoga County. For the past twenty-one years he has
been a respected and honored resident of the Tenth Ward of
this city. He was educated in the pubHc schools. Eleven
years ago he started in the saloon business and has been very
successful. In ISSi he was elected to represent his ward in
the Board of Supervisors and was thrice reelected. He is a
member of the Emeralds, Branch (3. of the Pilsner Demo-
cratic Club and of the Edward Murphy, Jr., Steamer
Company. Mr. Collhis is an extremely i)opular young man.

—273-

William D. Zo%.

WiLLiAivr D. Cox was born in Waterford, Saratoga
County, N. Y., September 11, 1S59, the son of John Cox and
Catherine Lanigan. His parents removed to Troy when he
was very young and here he has ever since remained. He
w^as educated at the Tenth Ward pubhc school and at the
Sisters' school. In the fall of 1886 he was elected an alder-
man fi'om the Tenth Ward and in 1888 was reelected for a
term of two years. Although one of the youngest mem-
bers of the Common Council, Alderman Cox is recognized as
one of the most efficient and influential. He is a member of
the Cleminshaw^ Bottling Company. Alderman Cox has
been a member of the Emeralds and was one of the
organizers of the Olympic Social Club. In the present
Common Council he is a member of the Committees on
Water- Works, Highways, Printing and Charity. Of the last
mentioned committee he is chairman.

-277—

V

John g. Gronin.

John ^. Cronin.

John Stephen Cronin, son of Cornelius and Mary Cronin,
is a native of Troy and has always resided in this city. He
was educated in the public schools, and graduated from the
High School with the highest honors of his class. After
leaving school Mr. Cronin became a reporter on the Troy
Press, and w^as soon recognized as one of our most promising
young journalists. He was attentive to his work, indus-
trious to a degree, and it did not take him long to secure
promotion to the chair of the city editor. The onerous and
responsible duties of this position were ably and conscien-
tiously discharged by Mr. Cronin. Under his careful
guidance the local force of the Press performed wonderful
work, and the paper was soon recognized as one of the
newsiest in the State. For fourteen years Mr. Cronin served
the paper and only left to enter business for himself. He is
now a w^arehouseman, and has one of the largest establish-
ments of the kind in the State, at the foot of Grand Street.
The only political position ever held by Mr. Cronin, although
in the days of his journalistic career he was prominent in
the councils of the Democracy, was that of clerk to the
Police Board, which he held for four years. In 1885 he was
president of the Y. M. C. L. A. Mr. Cronin is one of Troy's
substantial citizens, and possesses the confidence of the
business public and the esteem of a host of friends.

-281-

Qerald Q. I^iordari.

Qerald Q. I^iordan.

Gerald G. Eiordan was born in this city June 12, ISGl,
the son of John Riordan and Maiy Gleason. He was
educated in the pubhc schools and by the Christian Brothers.
In the High School he made a very flattering record. He
studied law in the offices of Nelson Davenport and the Hon.
Martin I. Townsend, and was admitted to the bar in 1881.
When Mr. Townsend was United States District Attorney,
Mr. Riordan acted as indictment clerk in the office, succeed-
ing Henry Barton, who subsequently went into the
diplomatic service of the United States. In 1886 Mr. Riordan
opened an office of his own, entering into partnership with
his gifted brothei', John, who died May 29, 1889. In 1884
Mr. Riordan was admitted to practice in the United States
Court by Judge Wallace at Utica, on motion of Mr. Town-
send. Mr. Riordan has been remarkably successful in the
practice of his profession. He is recognized as one of the
best criminal lawyers in the Rensselaer County bar, and has
a large and constantly increasing practice. He is an
eloquent pleader, and in the preparation of a brief has few
superiors.

-285 -

N,

.•:-^.iS<.*'v;.,iV' ;■'•.■'■•'• ■■.■i''iV'->r"*r""\'''

Jairies D. pieniing.

Janies D. "pieiriiiii

James T). Fleming first saw the light of day m 1864 in
this city, in the house No, 72 Federal Street. He is the son
of James Fleming and Norah Holmes, and he has always
resided in this city. After attending the Fourth Ward
School and the High School imtil he had secured a splendid
education he entered the employ of Peabody & Parks, and
has since remaine'd with their successors, Lockwood & Buell
and T. W. Lockwood, Jr. For the first three years he served
as book-keeper, and for the past five years he has been
traveling for the firm, meeting with very gratifying success.
Although still a young man Mr. Fleming is recognized as
one of the best traveling salesmen in the State. He has
acted as secretary of the Y. M. C. L. A. He is a member of
the Bachelors' Club, the Pilsner Club and Post D of the
Commercial Travelers.

—289-

APPENDIX.

Since the enclosed sketches were placed in type Senator
Collins has been reelected to the Senate for a term of two
years, by an increased majority ; George O'Neil is succeeded
in the Assembly by James M. Riley, and John P. Curley has
retired from the civil justiceship, which he held for three
terms. The appointment of District Attorney Griflith as
county judge to succeed E. L. Fursman, elevated to the
Supreme Court bench, rendered the office of district attorney
vacant. Early in January Governor Hill filled the vacancy
by the appointment of Assistant District Attorney John P.
Kelly. Thomas S. Fagan, whose term as civil justice had
expired, was appointed assistant district attorney. William
H. Ryan has retired from his position as book-keeper in the
Press office. Daniel T. Holland and Cornelius M. Dorsey
have dissolved their partnership, and each is conducting a
separate painting and decorating business. In the election
last fall Mark J. Coyle was chosen an alderman from the
Second Ward. Alderman Patrick J. Delaney, when the
present Common Council was organized, was elected presi-
dent of that body, and accordingly he is now a member of
the contracting board. George E. Sands has retired from
the comptroller's office, and will shortly be admitted to the
bar.

February, 1890.

H^'.

i

^^»j?^-